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Why it's done
By Mayo Clinic staffSpermicide is a contraceptive substance that can help prevent pregnancy. Spermicide:
- Can be used alone or with a barrier method, such as a condom, diaphragm, contraceptive sponge or cervical cap
- Doesn't require partner cooperation
- Doesn't require a prescription or fitting
- Doesn't carry the side effects of hormone-based birth control methods
- Increases lubrication during sex
Spermicide isn't appropriate for everyone, however. Your health care provider may discourage use of spermicide if:
- You're at high risk of contracting HIV or you have HIV or AIDS
- You have vaginal abnormalities that interfere with the placement of spermicide
- You have frequent urinary tract infections
- You're at high risk of pregnancy — you're younger than age 30, you have sex three or more times a week, or you're not likely to consistently use spermicide
References
- Turok D. The quest for better contraception: Future methods. Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America. 2007;34:137.
- Frequently asked questions: Birth control methods. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/birth-control-methods.pdf. Accessed Oct. 2, 2009.
- Barrier methods of contraception. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp022.cfm. Accessed Oct. 2, 2009.
- Over-the-counter vaginal contraceptive and spermicide drug products containing nonoxynol-9; Required labeling. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/98fr/80n-0280-nfr0003.pdf. Accessed Oct. 23, 2009.
- Cates W, et al. Vaginal barriers and spermicides. In: Hatcher RA, et al. Contraceptive Technology. 19th ed. New York, N.Y.: Ardent Media, Inc.; 2007:317.
- Zieman M. Overview of contraception. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Oct. 2, 2009.
- Harms RW (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Nov. 13, 2009.
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